3 Days Cultural Immersion Itinerary in Arcadia, California

• Day 1 - Morning: Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
  The LA County Arboretum will give you a chance to immerse in nature and learn about local flora and fauna. This park covers 127 acres, including walking trails, gardens, and historical buildings. Don't miss the peacock garden where you can see these magnificent birds roam around.
  
  
• Day 1 - Afternoon: The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
  The Huntington is a vast museum and library complex showcasing rare books, paintings, sculptures, and botanical gardens. The art collection here is one of the most extensive in the US. You can take a stroll in the 120-acre garden, featuring themed gardens like the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, and the Rose Garden.
  
  
• Day 2 - Morning: Santa Anita Park
  Visit Santa Anita Park to experience the horse racing culture and history of this famous track. You can take a tour of the racetrack, visit the museum, or watch the live races. Can't miss the famous horse statues at the entrance. Try the park's restaurant with a view of the race tracks.
  
  
• Day 2 - Afternoon: San Gabriel Mission
  The San Gabriel Mission is a historical landmark from the 18th century. It is the fourth of the 21 California Missions and rich in California's Hispanic history. Take a guided tour to learn about the Mission's history, architecture, and art. Don't miss visiting the gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and even help support the Mission.
  
  
• Day 3 - Morning: Arcadia Farmer's Market
  The farmer's market offers fresh and organic fruits, vegetables, nuts, baked goods, and more. This farmer's market has been named one of the top ten in Los Angeles for its variety, quality, and cultural immersion experience.
  
  
• Day 3 - Afternoon: Methodist Hospital
  End your trip with a visit to the Methodist Hospital. Although it might sound unusual, this hospital has an art program, where they have more than 700 fine art pieces on display. Through this art venture, the idea is to uplift the spirits of their patients and their kin. Take a guided tour to see the hospital's history and art pieces.
  
  

Time and Cost Estimates

• Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden (2 hours, $15)
• The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens (4 hours, $25)
• Santa Anita Park (2-3 hours, $10 for general admission)
• San Gabriel Mission (1-2 hours, $5 for adults)
• Arcadia Farmer's Market (1 hour, free)
• Methodist Hospital (1 hour, free)

Total Estimated Costs: $55

Transportation

Arcadia is a car-centric city, so renting a car is the most convenient way of transportation. However, if you're not willing to rent a car, you can take public transportation via buses or trains. The estimated cost of transportation is around $10-$20 per day, depending on how many places you plan to visit. Driving is about 30 minutes away from downtown Los Angeles.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit the Arcadia Wilderness, an excellent hiking trail. Also, if you want to learn about exotic animals, you can visit the nearby Los Angeles Zoo. If you want to subtract time, you can choose between either the Arboretum or The Huntington, depending on which is more appealing.

Airports

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the closest major airport to Arcadia, located about 36 miles southwest. Another option is the Bob Hope Airport (BUR) located about 21 miles north.